Warning of bitter winter, DTE Energy and others provide tips on savings and support available

The Heat and Warmth Fund and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services join DTE Energy to discuss help available to Michiganders this winter

DETROIT, Nov. 29, 2021 - DTE Energy joined today with The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services in urging Michiganders to take advantage of programs to help make ends meet this winter. DTE, Michigan's largest energy company, also provided simple tips to help consumers lower their energy usage during the heating season.

DTE is encouraging customers to follow three steps to keep warm this winter season.

• Know there are programs available to help. Customers should reach out for help as soon as they think they may have a problem paying their bills. DTE offers several assistance programs for those in need of support, and can also connect customers to non-profit partners who have additional programs available. In fact, the White House recently highlighted the partnership between DTE and the State of Michigan as an example of efficiency in getting assistance quickly to families who need help. Just call DTE Customer Service at 1.800.477.4747.
• Understand your bill. While DTE Gas customers will save an average of $20 a month on their heating bills because the company locked in prices early and expects gas costs to remain stable, that may not be true for customers with other suppliers. Customers using other suppliers will still receive their bill from DTE, so it's important to examine your bill, determine who the natural gas supplier is, and the rate you're paying. It's key to understand the terms and conditions for the remainder of the winter season with your supplier. For more information, visit the DTE Gas Choice website. Customers can also compare prices at the State of Michigan's Compare MI Gas website.
• Take advantage of ways to reduce your use. Simple steps include lowering your thermostat a few degrees, caulking windows and changing the furnace filter frequently. There are many suggestions on the DTE website to help save customers money.

"We're here to help," said Dan Brudzynski, vice president, DTE Gas Sales & Supply. "DTE wants to ensure our customers stay warm this winter, from saving customers an average of $20 a month on their heating bills by locking in prices early to connecting them with programs that can be a safety net in tough times."

THAW CEO Saunteel Jenkins shared in the briefing how the organization supports struggling families locally and intends to amplify its resources this season.

"THAW works to stabilize Michigan families and keep them healthy, safe and warm," said Jenkins. "We have funds available to assist those struggling to pay their electric and heating bills, and we are so glad DTE is helping Michigan families get ahead of the onset of winter with this much-needed information."

About DTE Energy

DTE Energy (NYSE: DTE) is a Detroit-based diversified energy company involved in the development and management of energy-related businesses and services nationwide. Its operating units include an electric company serving 2.2 million customers in Southeast Michigan and a natural gas company serving 1.3 million customers in Michigan. The DTE portfolio includes energy businesses focused on power and industrial projects, renewable natural gas, and energy marketing and trading. As an environmental leader, DTE utility operations will reduce carbon dioxide and methane emissions by more than 80% by 2040 to produce cleaner energy while keeping it safe, reliable and affordable. DTE Electric and Gas aspire to achieve net zero carbon and greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. DTE is committed to serving with its energy through volunteerism, education and employment initiatives, philanthropy and economic progress. Information about DTE is available at dteenergy.com, empoweringmichigan.com, twitter.com/dte_energy and facebook.com/dteenergy.

For further information, members of the media may contact: 

Colleen Rosso, DTE Energy, 313.235.5555 

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